Remote work and work–life balance for mothers working in a local government institution during the Covid-19 restrictions in South Africa.

Abstract

The social and economic transformations across developing industrial economies have resulted in concerns about how working mothers manage their lives across the spheres of work and life, whilst still achieving a balance between work and life roles. This research focuses on understanding the work-life balance experiences of nine working mothers who hold full-time positions and were working remotely during the COVID-19 lockdown in a Local Government Institution in South Africa. The study employs a qualitative research approach, specifically the Interpretative Phenomenological Analysis (IPA) paradigm. It utilises thematic analysis and incorporates the theoretical frameworks of spillover theory and intersectionality to address the research questions. The findings reveal that working mothers faced challenges in mediating the demands of work and private life during the lockdown. The boundaries between work and home became blurred, leading to inter-role conflict and emotional stress. Working mothers also employed coping mechanisms such as self-care practices and time-management techniques. Socio-economic disparities, gender norms, and cultural expectations were found to shape the experience of the mothers. This study concludes by recommending support for working mothers, including affordable childcare, parental leave regulations, and adaptable work schedules.